Christmas is right around the corner and there may be no holiday tradition as fulfilling as searching for the perfect tree. If you’re like 30 million other Americans you will purchase a real tree this year. If you’re the one cutting down the tree, it’s important to know what you’re doing so that you don’t hurt yourself or anyone around you. Follow these tips before you go Christmas tree hunting.​PrepareBefore you trudge through the snow to find your perfect pine, consider the following:

What size of tree do you need? Make sure you measure the space you plan to put the tree in and measure the tree before you start cutting. It also may be important for you to measure the doorway through which you plan to bring the tree.

Can I legally cut down this tree? If you are headed into open land for a tree, make sure you to check with your municipal, county or state government about a permit. If you’re headed to a Christmas tree farm, you’re safe.

Do I have the right tools? Bring a thick pair of gloves, an ax or bucksaw, and a means of getting your tree home. Evergreen trees can be messy too, so be sure to bring a tarp to wrap the tree in.

CutYou’ve found the perfect tree, and now it’s time to get chopping. Consider the following:

Leave the tree a foot or two longer than you need it. This way you can trim the bottom branches of the tree when you get it home if you’d like.

Your tree will fall to the side in which you are cutting, so be sure there is no one in its path.

Use your ax or saw to cut through the tree at a slight angle, and then push it onto the ground when it’s almost cut through.

Once it’s cut, have a friend or family member help carry it to your vehicle and secure it.

CareYour tree has made its way safely to your home, and now it’s time to care for it.

Trim the bottom of the trunk at a slight angle using a saw. Make an inch-wide cut to expose a fresh part of the trunk that will take up water more readily.

Use a stand that will hold a large amount of water, and water the tree regularly.

Mount the tree in the stand and fasten it so that it’s sturdy.

Make sure to take down your tree before it dries out as it can become a fire hazard.